Reimagining the rules that guide our social and economic realities

2015, here we come!

Thanks to you, 2014 was our best year yet. We held a policy series to learn about why housing in greater Boston is so expensive and what we can do about it (more on this below). Our network explored the issues of police militarization and law enforcement transparency following the tragic events in Ferguson, MO. And we got to know a lot of new folks who are interested in policy and want to get involved in their communities.

Now that 2015 is underway, we’re getting back in the swing of things with a newsletter full of important updates:

RSVP for our first Open House of 2015
On Wednesday, Feb. 25th, join us at Market Lounge (21 Broad Street in Boston) between 6:30-8 PM for drinks, networking and brainstorming ideas for our policy work in 2015. We’ll also talk about the steps to become a member of Roosevelt Institute | Boston. Bring your friends and neighbors. All are welcome to come and learn about who we are, what we do and how to get involved. RSVP here

Coming soon: housing policy white paper!
Based on our housing policy series in 2014, our Housing Committee is putting the finishing touches on a white paper that identifies housing developments in greater Boston that can serve as a model for communities to responsibly increase their housing supply and rein in prices. For questions, or to request an advance copy of the white paper, write Housing Committee Chairman, Alex Lessin, at boston@rooseveltinstitute.org. We’ll share the final version of the white paper with the network in the next few weeks.

Next steps for law enforcement policy work
In late 2014, we hosted a series of discussions examining the militarization of domestic law enforcement, featuring experts from ACLU Massachusetts. We learned about why there has been an increase in police militarization, how it affects our communities, and ways that engaged citizens can push for more accountability and transparency in law enforcement. In 2015, we’ll share a report of our findings and support ACLU-backed legislation. Stay tuned for details.

Until next time, email us with questions and follow us on Twitter. See you around the neighborhood!